Lake Anna is located in the heart of central Virginia, a region full of rich history from key founding fathers to significant battles and sites. Throughout 2026 and beyond, the area will host a number of activities celebrating the birth of our nation 250 years ago with the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. VA250 is the program behind many of the 250th celebrations happening in the Commonwealth highlighting Virginia’s involvement in the American Revolution and Revolutionary War.
Mark your calendar and experience a wide variety of remarkable commemorative events throughout Virginia.
All dates and times are subject to change. Please call ahead or check online before attending.
Hunter’s Iron Works Symposium, Stafford County
June 4-6
Discover the significance of James Hunter’s Iron Works, one of America’s first major industrial plants at this two-day special event in Fredericksburg.
Jack Jouett Day Festival, Louisa County
June 6
Bring the family to Southern Revere Cellars for a heritage celebration honoring folk hero John “Jack” Jouett and highlighting Louisa County’s deep history.
Oh Henry! A Revolutionary Life, City of Richmond
June 7
Learn about the vital role Patrick Henry played in the founding of our country at this event at St. John’s Church.
In the Eyes of the World: Celebrating 250 Years of American Independence, George Washington’s Mount Vernon
June 11
George Washington’s Mount Vernon will host a commemoration celebration in honor of America’s milestone 250th anniversary.
Richmond SailFest, City of Richmond
June 12-14
As a Sail Virginia 2026 Affiliate Harbor, Richmond will be a sight to see during this festive, family-friendly weekend featuring tall ships, ship tours and live performances, as well as a fireworks display above the James River on the evening of Saturday, June 13.
Juneteenth, celebrations happening statewide
Mid-June
Stay tuned to local events calendars for a variety of Juneteenth activities occurring throughout Virginia.
Black History Short Story Tour, City of Richmond
June 18
Experience an evening tour of The Valentine’s collection highlighting Black History in the Richmond area. Free and open to the public.
Twilight History for Kids:
Shining a Light on Revolutionary Life, City of Fredericksburg
June 22-25
Children, ages 8-12, are invited to explore our nation’s past at this multi-day program, including activities at historic sites around Fredericksburg including Mary Washington House, Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop and Mary Washington Monument.
VMHC IlluminNATION, City of Richmond
June 25-28
The Virginia Museum of History & Culture will host a free multi-night community event featuring a video art projection upon the outside of the museum’s building. Perfect for families, festivities will also include music, art, games and more.
Spotsylvania Stars & Stripes Spectacular, Spotsylvania County
June 27
Spotsylvania Historic Courthouse District’s annual patriotic festival will be filled with family fun. This popular (and free!) event will be extra special this year due to America’s 250th anniversary. Enjoy music, vendors, tours and fireworks!
Orange Music Festival VA250 Chris Cagle and Kentucky Headhunters, James Madison’s Montpelier
July 3
Music lovers won’t want to miss this festival, also a celebration of our country’s independence, with headliner Chris Cagle and a number of guest performers at Montpelier.
Fourth of July Celebration, Louisa County
July 4
Join the Town of Louisa’s Independence Day celebration featuring a parade, music, activities, demonstrations and fireworks.
250th Fourth of July, Stafford County
July 4
What better way to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday than at Ferry Farm, George Washington’s childhood home. Bring the family for a day of fun.
Constitution Tour, James Madison’s Montpelier, Orange County
July 4
Take a hour-long tour at Montpelier and learn about James Madison’s significant role in shaping our nation.
4th of July Parade 2026, Greene County
July 4
Head to Main Street in Stanardsville for the County’s 4th of July parade, where attendees will receive mini scrolls of the Declaration of Independence.
Genealogy Workshop – Unforgotten Patriots: Virginia’s Black Men & Women in the Revolutionary War, Library of Virginia, City of Richmond
July 10
Genealogist Dr. Shelley Viola Murphy will give a presentation about the roles of Black men and women during the American Revolutionary War, from military service to key battles, as well as the importance of preserving their stories.
VA250 Mobile Museum Experience, Albemarle County Fair at James Monroe’s Highland
July 30-Aug. 1
The interactive “museum on wheels” will deliver information and stories of Virginia’s past.
VA250 Mobile Museum Experience, the Constitution Day at James Madison’s Montpelier
Sept. 19
The interactive “museum on wheels” will deliver information and stories of Virginia’s past.
‘The Dissenters’ – A Play about the 10,000 Names Petition, Orange County
Oct. 10
The Orange County Historical Society will host a special event highlighting the Dissenters Petition that was signed by many in Virginia.
Lecture – Land, Liberty and Loyalties: Virginia Indian Participation in the Revolutionary War, Library of Virginia, City of Richmond
Nov. 10
Attend a free lecture by Anthropologist Ashley Spivey, Ph.D., and Historian Katie Gibson, M.A. about the challenging choices Indigenous peoples and their communities dealt with during the Revolutionary War.
For more information on
upcoming 250th events visit VA250.org.
More Historic Experiences
In addition to attending a commemorative event, there are numerous other ways to honor our country’s Semiquincentennial. The Virginia250 Passport Program is a great starting point for integrating 250th-related activities into itineraries. From exhibits to tours, Lake Anna and its surrounding areas are full amazing opportunities to learn more about our nation’s past.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Spotsylvania County Museum, Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello andJames Madison’s Montpelier make terrific day trips from Lake Anna. For more historic attractions and sites to visit in the region, check out VirginiaHistory.org/Virginia-250-Passport.
Also keep watch for the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience for an interactive “museum on wheels” display that is traveling around the Commonwealth. Near the Lake Anna region, the Mobile Museum will visit Albemarle County Fair at James Monroe’s Highland, July 30-Aug. 1, and James Madison’s Montpelier on Sept. 19. For more information about the VA250 Mobile Museum, visit VA250.org/mobile-museum.
